Stephanie Dickison's Blog, page 12

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News November 2-8, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 8.5 min read

My findings this week continue to illustrate the intense movement not only in the downtown core, but all over the GTA - and becoming increasingly more prevalent, at a singular address (details below), offering an expanse of options from casual coffee to Michelin style fare. And act quickly - closures will soon outpace arrivals. This week, they make up nearly half the openings.

Psst. Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN 

Specialty cafe The Brick Room kicks off Monday at Brookfield Place (181 St., Unit C060). In addition to getting your caffeine fix, fuel up with baked goods by Kensington Market micro bakery, Nassau Street Cafe.

Dinner and a show is now a reality at The Second City’s new digs at One York Street. Introducing on-site eatery The Bentwood (110 Harbour St., 3rd Fl.), operated by Oliver & Bonacini (O&B), the hospitality group behind Canoe, Jump, et al. Chose à la carte selections or the casual three-course pre fixe menu ($45) featuring salad to start, main such as spaghetti and meatballs or smash burger, and dessert.

Chai, Samosa & Chaat lands at Greenwood and Gerrard (1291 Gerrard St. E.) with namesake items in tow.

After opening a staggering 6,000+ shops in 28 countries in just over a year, the Cotti Coffee chain recently debuted the 6ix. It appears CC’s just getting started: A second outpost at Bay & Gerrard (700 Bay St., Unit 5), and third - the 6,000th store worldwide - at CF Fairview Mall (1800 Sheppard Ave. E.) swiftly followed.

Eataly expands its footprint across the GTA, opening today in Etobicoke at CF Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall), with a third scheduled at CF Shops at Don Mills. The world-renowned Italian emporium debuted at Bay and Bloor (Manulife Centre 55 Bloor St. W.) in November 2019.

Luli and Ina Tare, the mother-daughter duo behind recently shuttered Cou Cou Bakery, have a new venture. Choose from an array of elevated, nutrient-dense salads, soup, and grain bowls at Greens and Grains (778 Dundas St. W.).

In need of winter warm-ups in the Gerrard and Jones vicinity? Hana Ramen (1024 Gerrard St. E.) replaces another noodle outfit in the east end nabe.

After making its mark in the GTA these last few years, Hazukido’s family continue to grow: Grand opening for their latest croissanterie at Union Station’s Union Market (65 Front St. W., Unit 420) is happening Friday and Saturday, complete with croffles, croissants, totes, and other goodies.

Master Pot brings its bao zai fan - aka claypot rice - to Chinatown’s Dragon City Mall (280 Spadina Ave., Unit C).

Pro tip: Put Alfred Siu’s Overpressure Club (815 Bloor St. W.) on your must-visit list. Project Gigglewater’s sister concept launched Wednesday and I got a sneak peek (follow TR’s Insta for a closer look). What to expect: Sophisticated modernist cocktails on draught paired with stellar shareables (kitchen will be open late) in a sleek, yet laid back setting. Behind the bar: Beverage director Sasha Siegel and industry vet Troy Gilchrist. p.s. Want the inside track? OPEN/CLOSED readers got the head’s up back in April, with TR Newsletter subscribers getting the full deets back in July. Get on it.

Seeti Maarr is the spot for pressure cooked pulavs in Scarborough (41 Lebovic Ave., Unit A121). Grand opening celebrations take place tomorrow.

I’ve had my work cut out for me at the seemingly quiet intersection at Queen and Coxwell. After the wild happenings at 1606 Queen St. E. lately, the neighbouring space has proven just as eventful. In the span of two years it’s been home to: most recently Shawarma Factory, before that Amor Fusion Doner & Kebab, Amor Doner, and ZIBA Berlin Doner, and now Shawarma Day (1608 Queen St. E.).

An outpost of fry-centric Smoke’s Poutinerie landed in Greektown (588 Danforth Ave.) just prior to news about its founder. Details below.

Psst. Michelin-starred Enigma Yorkville’s new St. Thomas Restaurant & Wine Bar (23 St. Thomas St.) puts chef Quinton Bennett’s Spanish-inspired fare in the spotlight by way of pintxo hour and à la carte menu.

Supreme Juice Bar at the corner of Coxwell and Gerrard (10 Eastwood Rd.) is just steps from Harry’s Charbroiled (255 Coxwell Ave.), set to launch any day now, making for a sensational combo.

North York’s Vietnoms just dropped a second location in Thornhill (7000 Bathurst St.).

3 Eleven Indian Bar & Kitchen (1988 Avenue Rd. 2nd Fl.) takes over what was fine dining Italian restaurant Rossini’s until recently.

CLOSED 

BJ Supermarket (1449 Gerrard St. E.), a fixture for decades in Gerrard India Bazaar, has permanently closed.

The space that was home to GB Hand Pulled Noodle (1024 Gerrard St. E.) has already been filled. Details above. Note: A GB location remains at Dundas and Bay (66 Edward St.).

Harry’s Charbroiled in Little Italy (239 Palmerston Ave.) has come to a close after four years, however you’ll be able to find them in the east end soon (details above) with another westside location in the works. Did you know? The Palmerston addy was formerly home to Woodlot (rip).

Chef Michelle Bouzide’s Lebanese restaurant Little Sito (840 Bloor St. W.) featuring made-from-scratch fare has come to a close, however “future plans” are on the horizon.

Windows are papered over at what started out at Bombay Frankie, then changed to Mumbai Frankie (1386 Gerrard St. E., Unit 5).

My Bar & Restaurant (934 Gerrard St. E.) was up for rent for a hot second last spring before shutting down this fall.

Pickle Barrel had a 15 year run at CF Markville Mall (5000 Hwy 7). Operations continue in Toronto, North York and further afield.

Tandem Coffee (368 King St. E.) announced closure only days prior to the abrupt end of their decade-long Corktown cafe, however owners Michie Yamamoto and Eugene Fung did leave customers with a glimmer of hope with postscript “More to come!”

NEWS

Ryan Smolkin, Founder and CEO of Smoke's Poutinerie, died of “unexpected complications from a recent surgery” at the age of 50. Have a memory you’d like to share? Post it to the website.

Adding to the food recalls of late: President's Choice White Sliced Mushrooms recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News October 26-November 1, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 9 min read

With 23 arrivals and almost a third of that in closures, you’ve got a lot of planning to do.

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN

Bar Prima (1136 Queen St W.), the latest venture by La Palma chefs Craig Harding and Julian D'Ippolito, opened last night with chef de cuisine Nicholas Iaboni and team doling out Italian fare in a striking setting by Future Studio.

Chicken Plus+, known for its Korean fried chicken, boneless chicken and tteokbokki across the GTA, has three new locations: East Chinatown (368 Broadview Ave.), Liberty Village (134 Atlantic Ave.), and softly opening Saturday, Vaughan Mills (3175 Rutherford Rd., Unit 81).

Hot tip: One of the city’s top dessert destinations just expanded. East York’s Circles & Squares Bakery (197 Bartley Dr.) found a second home at the corner of Yonge and Davisville (1909 Yonge St.). You’re going to need your stretchy pants for this one. See: Cruffins, butter tarts, cookies, brownies, danishes, et al. Grand opening is Saturday.

Tuck into “soulful Afro and Italian-inspired” victuals or toast to the weekend with bottle service at Cravin Kitchen + Lounge (5164 Dundas St. W.), the latest fine dining resto to touch down in Etobicoke.

Dhillon’s Karahi (1213 Bayview Avenue, Unit 4) just launched in Leaside and has already racked up rave reviews for their Tandoori Chicken, Lamb Curry, paneer butter masala, and cauliflower bites, amongst others.

Halal Turkish smokehouse Eat Meat in Mississauga (2273 Dundas St. W. Unit 6) was made for carnivores and protein-lovers alike. Discover an assortment of beef (brisket, kebabs, steak), lamb (shoulder, neck, ribs), and chicken (wings, fajitas, souvlaki) selections, alongside pizza, pasta, and veg-centric options.

Toronto’s newest craft brewery, Goldenfield Brewery (71 Sunrise Ave.), complete with bottle shop, tap and tasting room, boasts signature suds including Blonde Ale, IPA, Double IPA, and Witbier.

Grayson’s Rustic Bakery’s brick-and-mortar shop in Birchcliffe-Cliffside (1672 Kingston Rd.) has been in the works for years. Finally, GRB’s sourdough boules, baguettes, cinnamon buns, and breakfast sandos can now be yours.

Burger and taco joint Grillies is always adding to the fam. Find their most recent addition open 24/7 in Etobicoke at Royal York and Bloor (3075 Bloor St. W.).

Hakka Boyz/Dosa Boyz claims to have “Canada's largest South Indian and Indo-Chinese buffet.” See for yourself at their digs in Kennedy Commons (35 William Kitchen Rd.). Stay tuned: A Richmond Hill location is in the works.

TR readers got the scoop on Henderson Brewery @ YYZ back in June. For those just catching up, mark your calendars:The 28-seat bar at Toronto Pearson Airport by local brewery Henderson Brewing Company and iconic Canadian band Rush kicks off on Tuesday.

Dinner and a show? King Bolzano Ristorante (239 Broadview Ave.) - aka Bolzano Ristorante Pizzeria & Bar - opened yesterday, steps away from new arrival Hugh’s Room Live (296 Broadview Ave.). Grand opening spesh: Pepperoni Slice for $3.99.

Marusya’s Kitchen (2432 Bloor St. W.) in Bloor West Village is all about European comfort fare. Behind the new enterprise? Maria Janchenko of neighbouring Janchenko Bakery (2394 Bloor St. W.).

Craving Filipino food? Head to Max’s Restaurant in Vaughan (1520 Steeles Ave. W., Unit 121) for a stellar lineup including but not limited to: Kare-Kare, Sisig, Pancit Palabok, Bicol Express, Chicken Adobo Sa Gata, and made-to-order Whole Fried Chicken.

Montreal’s Mr Puffs has been setting up shop in the GTA since 2022 with their famed hot puffs finished in various glazes (think Strawberry, Hazelnut Chcooclate, Biscoff Bueno), speciality Illy coffees, and soft serve. Grand opening for the Scarborough store (3155 Markham Rd. Unit D-4) starts Saturday at 11am.

Celebrations for Neo Coffee Bar at King and Spadina (61 Spadina Ave.) takes place Saturday with a complimentary Matcha White Chocolate or Dark Chocolate mini cookie with every purchase and chance to win exciting prizes. This marks their third modern Japanese bakery and cafe in Toronto, with more in the pipeline.

Starting today, Prince St. Pizza’s Sicilian style pizza is available north of the border . The U.S. chain’s first location in Canada is one of the first concepts to debut at The Well (472 Front St. W.), the highly anticipated pedestrian village of sorts in the heart of downtown.

Suma's Egyptian Grill (977 O'Connor Dr.) is the spot for hawawshi, Egyptian pizza and smash burgers. And check out Chef Salah’s Cairo-style brekkie on weekends.

Pape Villages’s long-running Tzatziki opened a second branch at Mount Pleasant and Eglinton (758A Mt. Pleasant Rd.).

Tombic Shawarma at Oakwood and Eglinton (1639 Eglinton Ave. W.) is all about its namesake dish.

Find 68°C Stone + Grill (285 Dundas St. W.) across from the AGO with fish, meat and veg served sizzling atop hot stone.

CLOSED

Bad Blowfish Cafe (1595 Bayview Ave.) came and went in less than a year. It’s not the first to leave the space lately: The Leaside addy has been home to numerous concepts in the last few years, notably Charcoal Biryani, Bombay Snack Bar/Bom-Bay Snack Bar, Bombay Frankie, and Egg Bird.

Black Tulip Restaurant and Bar (807 St. Clair Ave. W.) came on the scene in early 2020. Last service for the Hungarian restaurant is Sunday.

Grand opening festivities for Chungchun Rice Dog’s Etobicoke location at Royal York and Bloor (3075 Bloor St. W.) took place July 7, 2021.

Cou Cou Bakery (988 St Clair Ave. W.) was a recent addition to Corso Italia.

After a four-year run in Riverside, Indian Spice Room (717 Queen St. E., Unit 1/2) has closed up shop.

Ma Maison on Bloor West (2432 Bloor St. W.) has come to an end. For what’s in its place, see above.

Earlier this week, Muddy York Brewing Co. announced the East York brewery (22 Cranfield Rd.) will permanently close at the end of the year. Plans to expand to Stouffville however, are still in effect.

Due to a fire in the landlord’s basement, Stop restaurant (1543 Dundas St. W.) is closed “unfortunately until further notice.” 

Siam Square Hut was a Bayview staple for a long time - originally in what was once Sunnybrook Plaza (660 Eglinton Ave. E., Unit 120), followed by a move not far south at Bayview and Moore (1213 Bayview Ave., Unit 4).

NEWS

According to news reports, Merrick ‘Owen’ Aries, co-owner of Toronto Jamaican restaurant The Diner's Corner (678 Yonge St.), died in Salt River, Claredon in Jamaica.

Food recalls are on the rise again. The latest additions: Lavergne Meat & Deli Breakfast sausages recalled due to undeclared milk, and Lian Teng Enoki Mushrooms recalled due to Listeria monocytogenes, and Insignia Multi-Function Pressure Cookers recalled due to potential burn hazard. [UPDATE 27.10.23: Various brands of caffeinated energy drinks recalled due to caffeine content and labelling issues.]

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News October 19-25, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 9.5 min read

Think you know what’s happening? Think again. This edition, as with the majority these days, tracks the sheer volume of establishments setting up shop, with closures continuing to build momentum.

Psst. Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN

Long before the King Blue Hotel (355 King St. W.) came on the scene, the south east corner of King & Blue Jays Way was home to Indian Motorcycle Cafe & Lounge, with the iconic bikes serving as a backdrop to drinks and dancing. Fast forward 20-odd years: Introducing street level resto Abrielle by Ascari Hospitality Group, the folks behind Ascari Enoteca and Gare De L’Est to name a few - Ascari King a few blocks east, came to an end earlier this year. Heading up the coastal Mediterranean kitchen: Chef Olivier Le Calvez, recently of Casa Madera of the 1Hotel. p.s. TR Newsletter subscribers were the first to know.

Alice Restaurant & Bar (488 College Ave.) celebrates its grand opening this weekend. The new “upscale casual” resto and bar is doing modern American fare - burgers, tacos, steak, pasta - alongside wine and cocktails. Find them in Little Italy in what was home to Blackburn Social House until recently.

Columbus Café & Co, a chain from France that will be appearing in Indigo stores shortly, debuted a stand-alone destination earlier this week in the Entertainment District at Adelaide and John (283 Adelaide St. W.). This marks the first Toronto location.

“Italian-inspired” restaurant Contrada (537 College St.) kicks off in Little Italy on Tuesday, taking over from The Dog & Tiger.

Dahu Hotpot (47 Baldwin St.) has relocated to Baldwin Village, moving into the former digs of neighbourhood mainstay, Wah Sing Seafood Restaurant. The Chongqing hot pot restaurant states this is “the first and only flagship store in Canada,” and effective December 13, 2022, is “no longer affiliated or related with the business currently operating at 550 Hwy 7, Unit 280” in Richmond Hill.

Turkish delight, halva, baklava and other confections are what’s up at Funduk (330 Yonge St.) at Yonge and Dundas.

Boozy brunches. Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Dope fades. It’s all happening at Queen and Portland, courtesy of Good Company (498 Queen St. W.).

Noodle bowls abound at GunGun Rice Noodle (565 Yonge St.). The new arrival at Yonge and Wellesley replaces recently shuttered Como En Casa.

The latest outpost of the Ichiban Sushi House chain quietly debuted in The Beaches at Queen and Woodbine (1864 Queen St. E.), in what was most recently a weed shop.

Maverick's Donut Company lands in Oakville (152 Lakeshore Rd. E.) with rotating selections including Apple Caramel, Black Forest, Cherry Cheesecake and Pumpkin Spice. TR Insider tip: A Parkdale location is on the way.

I gave you the scoop on Opal Lounge above newly opened Zaad (124 Danforth Ave.) months back. Update: Head upstairs for burgers, shisha, patio and more.

Coffee’s on at Yonge and St. Clair thanks to Pilot Coffee (1 St. Clair Ave. E.). Did you know? Their latest shop fills the modern space first occupied by now defunct Prairie Boy Bread.

Renaissance Detroit Style Pizza at Palmerston and Dundas (809 Dundas St. W.) is the latest to ride the Motor City pan pizza wave. Dig into global flavours via Tandoori Paneer, Greek, and Duck Confit selections.

It’s opening weekend for Parkdale’s Three Dollar Bill (1592 Queen St. W.). The new queer bar by Castle, Maro (Maria’s Taverna and 2SLGBTQIA+ community focused Queer Wine Night) and Meaghan Murray aims to “create a welcoming and safe space that serves as a hub for Toronto’s Queer community.” Enjoy trivia nights, dance parties and other events in a completely reimagined setting.

Tiger Sugar, the Taiwanese boba pearl milk tea chain, continues to expand its footprint across the city. Discover the latest at Yonge and Eglinton (2391 Yonge St.) with grand opening BOGO free offers this weekend: Friday (3-10pm) and Saturday and Sunday (12-10pm).

Hailing from Kitchener, halal restaurant Turkish Flames set down roots in Mississauga at Dixie and Eglinton (5200 Dixie Rd.) with everything from kebabs and pides to mixed platters.

CLOSED

Egg Bae debuted in in Kensington (189 Augusta Ave.) in 2019. While the original “Eggs Before All Else” eatery has come to a close, Yonge and Dundas (13 Elm St.) remains open.

A kitchen fire occurred at Figo (295 Adelaide St. W.) on Friday. No injuries were reported. The restaurant is “temporarily closed until the near future.”

Figures (137 Avenue Rd.) has been quietly closed for some time, however it’s official now that Paros’ owners are coming through with 137 Avenue Road. Hands up if you remember when the space was Coco Lezzone and Vittorio's on Avenue.

Glory Hole Doughnuts’ announcement yesterday of the abrupt permanent closure of the Harbord location (130 Harbord St.) comes just over a year after opening. The reason? Owner and pastry chef Ashley Jacot De Boinod’s post reads in part: “We were not welcomed. From the moment we stepped foot in the area. Unfortunately, some neighborhoods do not want to embrace change. I get it.”

There goes another Beaches stalwart. Following the closure of former neighbour Honey Bee earlier this year, Green Eggplant (2024 Queen St. E.) has shut the doors.

Me Va Me Kitchen Express downtown outpost (240 Queen St. W.) debuted in 2014.

Neon Tiger has been on quite the journey (catch up here). The latest changes: Dupont (14 Dupont Ave.) is done, while Queen (1166 Queen St. W.) is closed temporarily, set to return with “a new menu food and drink along with a slight different interior.”

Submarine At Broadview (239 Broadview Ave.), a fixture at the corner of Dundas and Broadview for eons, will soon be switched out for King Bolzano Ristorante offering an array of pizza, pasta, and wings.

Ultimate Kitchens (461 Carlaw Ave.), the ghost kitchen food hall that debuted in the east end in 2020, was home at one time or another for Durty Dawgs, Fresh Kitchen, Harvey’s, New York Fries and Swiss Chalet. Currently, the rotisserie chain is the sole concept in the space. The other Toronto location (18 Banigan Dr.), also now closed, opened in 2020 and included more chains in the mix. A branch in Montreal, then Hamilton followed in 2021.

NEWS 

, Co-Founder of Harvey’s and Swiss Chalet, died peacefully at home at 96 years of age.

Is City of Toronto’s announcement of “program improvements for summer 2024 CaféTO patio season” too little too late? 

Please support local businesses whenever possible .

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal 

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News October 12-18, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 6 min read

Tracking the movement of establishments both in the city and across the GTA has never been more challenging. As rigorously chronicled here, the waves of comings and goings continue - with the addition of multiple concepts moving in and out of a single space in record time (as illustrated below), making it particular arduous to track establishments. See for yourself.

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

Here’s the very latest:

OPEN                   

Psst. Bar Avelo (51 St Nicholas St.) just debuted above Avelo. Not only is the plant-based cocktail bar nestled atop a Victorian townhouse, it’s breathtaking.

Kingston 12 Patty Shop (1808 Eglinton Ave. W.) is your one-stop shop for patties and Caribbean fare at the corner of Dufferin and Eglinton.

The LC Cafe’s wide-ranging menu spans the globe: Dig into Eisbein (ham hock) with Sauerkraut, Lobster Salad featuring a whole lobster, and Pork Chop Rice with ‘Typhoon Shelter Style,’ for starters. Find it at Midland and Finch tucked inside Scarboro Village Mall (3290 Midland Ave., Unit 2-3R).

The Annex is teeming with restaurants, but none like Maji Curry (515 Bloor St. W.). Curry obsessed founder Ken Takagi launched his first curry spot in 2018 in Kanda Jimbocho, an area in Tokyo known as 'the holy land of curry’ for its concentration of curry shops. The restaurant went on to win the prestigious Kanda Curry Championship just seven months after opening, and again when the competition resumed during the pandemic in 2022. This marks the first location in Canada.

Mazadar Restaurant (1606 Queen St. E.) has arrived at Queen and Coxwell with a lineup of authentic Afghanistan fare. Think: mantu, kebabs, lamb chops, and t-bone steak. Did you know? After being the last home for The Tulip until closure was announced January 2020, it only recently came back to life: In April as Smacks with halal Smack and Slap burgers, then signage briefly changed to another biz, Uncle Rams, before Mazadar opened.

Dosa and roti have touched down in Leaside, courtesy of dual concept My Roti Place/My Dosa Place (1574 Bayview Ave.). p.s. This address has also seen a lot of movement lately: Taste of Persia shut down in Summer ‘22, and was immediately replaced by vegan Indian resto HindusThali hailing from Montreal.

Korean fried chicken chain NeNe Chicken debuted in North York less than a year ago. Newsflash: A branch is now open at Dundas and Chestnut (171 Dundas St. W., Lower Level, Entrance on Chestnut).

Hot tip: Soft opening for Toro Toro Sushi + Poke’s first downtown destination took place yesterday. The third outpost at the corner of Yonge and Charles (675 Yonge St.) is quite the transformation: For decades the space was home to big chains including Starbucks and McDonald’s.

Varda (350 King St. W., 3rd Fl.), TIFF’s new cafe and bar at TIFF Bell Lightbox named in honour of French filmmaker Agnès Varda, kicked off Friday with select eats and drinks.

CLOSED

Today, Junction bakery The Butternut Baking Co. (2743 Dundas St. W.) announced doors are permanently closing. The keto and paleo bakery free of dairy, grain and gluten, started on Kickstarter seven years ago. Good news: TBBC will likely will continue in another form, as owner Michelle Moraes message reads in part: “This isn’t goodbye, but rather a transition that may just lead to an even more incredible chapter,” and the final date has yet to be announced.

The windows are papered over at Keep W!ngin It at Woodbine and Danforth (2075 Danforth Ave.). Doors opened February 2022. An outpost recently launched in Markham.

Earlier this week, Ration | Beverley disclosed this is the last week of service. The Michelin-recommended finer dining spot at Sonder The Beverley (335 Queen St. W.) is shuttering two weeks following the announcement of this year’s Michelin roster, in which they made the Recommended list once again.

The 1211 (1211 Bloor St. W.) started off in Bloordale only seven months ago, however it’s been marked permanently closed on Google.

ICYMI

Calling all beer and pickle lovers: Picklefest, Toronto’s first festival of pickles and all things fermented is happening Oct 21. Want to score tix? Enter Toronto Restaurants and Henderson Brewing Co’s exciting giveaway on IG now. To purchase tickets and for more information, visit Picklefest 2023.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal 

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News September 28-October 4, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 7 min read

From casual eats of fried chicken, pizza, noodles and subs to comforting Indigenous and Laotian fare, this week’s arrivals tick a lot of boxes.
p.s. Added in for good measure: Dessert destinations, because couldn’t you use chocolate and ice cream right about now?

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN

Hot tip: Detroit-style pizza named after iconic Black musicians and entertainers just landed in the Garden District. Grad a slab of The James Brown, Sam Cooke, Davis Jr. and Hendrix Experience at Afro’s Pizza steps away from Jarvis and Dundas (105 Mutual St.).

Speak of ‘za: One of the many pink establishments about town, Blondies Pizza, kicked off a Midtown location yesterday (280 Eglinton Ave. W.). This marks the seventh location for the local pizza chain.

Dear Saigon is in motion. Following a second location, the first downtown branch launched just six months ago, the Vietnamese noodle bar continues to expand across the 6ix - A Scarborough outpost (3720 Midland Ave, Unit 101-103) debuts Saturday.

Doors softly opened Monday for the newest destination for Indigenous-inspired cuisine. Find ‘Dehwigan Cafe in Centennial College’s The School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culinary Arts new A-Building expansion project (937 Progress Ave., A-Building, Third Floor). The teaching and learning café boasts smoked salmon Bannock sandwich, hot pickerel tacos, pemmican, blueberry muffins, corn cookies, and ‘Dehwigan Breakfast using ingredients and techniques “inspired by Indigenous Peoples across Canada” and highlighting Indigenous suppliers.

Earlier this summer, TR Newsletter subscribers got the exclusive on Lambo’s Deli & Grocery’s (176 Bellwoods Ave.) plans to expand to the east end. Update: Doors open Monday at another corner spot, this time Queen and Greenwood (1372 Queen St. E.), where Mira Mira Sandwich + Ice Cream Bar previously held court.

Lao Food Co., aka Lao Supper Club, was a pop-up adventure for years that gained momentum during the pandemic. Psst. Dao Lao’s Laotian eatery finally has a brick-and-mortar spot to call its own at Davenport and Laughton (1927 Davenport Rd.).

MightyBird touched down Monday at the Foodie Aisle in Union Station. The city’s latest fried chicken joint with an array of sandos, plates, and poutine is backed by resto groups Eat Up Canada (Bombay Frankies) and Open Concept Hospitality (Union Chicken).

Oops Ice Cream softly opened Friday at Coxwell and Gerrard (261 Coxwell Ave.). Enjoy small batch flavours scooped in a bright white space.

ISO snacks and shwarama for a study sesh? Look no further than Osmow’s at University of Toronto Scarborough Campus (1265 Military Tr.).

Expansive Greek resto Paros Yorkville (119 Yorkville Ave.) debuts tomorrow. Did you know? The addy was home to cocktail bar Middle8 as of Summer ‘21 until earlier this year, and most notably Amber that survived for 20 years before shuttering in 2019.

Back in the day, Second Cup was as ubiquitous as Starbucks. Since Foodtastic acquired the Canadian coffee chain in 2021, Second Cup Cafés are back in the swing of things. Find the latest inside Union Station Bus Terminal (81 Bay St.), part of the new CIBC Square. Bonus: The 181st location includes a new Chocolato dessert menu, complete with soft serve and sundaes.

Earlier this summer, Soul Chocolate left its teeny digs in East Chinatown (583 Gerrard St. E.) for a bigger storefront and production space. Grand opening for their new artisanal chocolate shop just west of Greenwood (20 Wagstaff Dr., Unit C) next to Left Field Brewery, is happening Saturday.

CLOSED

Daisy (563 Queen St. W.), a “premium lounge” offering “elevated cocktailing” has been marked permanently closed on Google following a ‘Notice of Violation’ from the city on the door dated September 16.

FishInn (2392 Bloor St. W.) arrived in Bloor West Village during the pandemic. Fun fact: It’s not the first marine-themed concept here. It was previously home to local, now defunct fish chain The One That Got Away.

Friends Burgers (1922 Queen St. E.) landed in the Beaches Summer ‘21 with a lineup of burgers, fresh cut fries, and poutine.

Grill Gate arrived at Jarvis and Dundas (203 Dundas St. E.) last year, with Chef Kareema Inc venturing into the space the year prior.

The announcement of the forthcoming closure of the 6ix’s “first completely vegan Italian restaurant” went out over the weekend. You’ve only got a few days to get in on the final four-course prezzo fisso at Osteria Du (536 Queen St. W.), brought to you by Awai Hospitality Group (Avelo, Pizzeria Du, M!lk Dessert Bar). The reason? “Our rent is going up to pre-pandemic rates, and unfortunately the numbers just don't work out in today's environment.” Last dinner is September 30.

Little Italy’s Quadro Ristorante (577 College St.) temporarily closed due to fire on Tuesday. New next door neighbour Il Padrino (579 College St.) is also shuttered until further notice.

CHANGES

Sophie’s Kitchen in Leaside (1614 Bayview Ave.) continues to serve up breakfast-centric fare under the new moniker, Tiarré's Brunch 'N Cakes.

NEWS

According to news reports, Jubilee Pridham, General Manager of Toronto restaurant chain Piano Piano, her co-worker Gabby Chartier, and Chartier’s mother, visited a wine bar in Bordeaux, France earlier this month, where “at least 15 people were infected with botulism,” including Pridham and her co-worker. A GoFundMe Campaign has been created to help cover Pridham’s’s numerous costs including travel and medical expenses.

The latest food recall: Ararat Tahina recalled due to Salmonella.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal

2023 Michelin Guide Toronto: Recommended Restaurants

FK Restaurant. Photo by Stephanie Dickison | Toronto Restaurants

🕘 6 min read

Michelin Guide announced the recipients of this year’s Toronto Starred, Bib Gourmand, Recommended, and Special awards this evening at a splashy invite-only ceremony at History.

While fine dining buffs are likely familiar with the criteria for stars and the requirements for an establishment to receive a Bib Gourmand distinction, the Recommended category remains more of an enigma.

What it takes to be a ‘Recommended’ restaurant

In the site’s article, What It Means To Be A Michelin-Recommended Restaurant, Michael Ellis, International Director of Michelin Guide books, says, “A restaurant in the Recommended selection is the sign of a chef using quality ingredients that are well cooked; simply a good meal.”

It turns out, inspectors apply the five criteria used for starred and Bib Gourmand restaurants. If the food is, as he says, “above average, but not quite at star or Bib level,” it’s considered for Recommended selection. That’s just the beginning. According to Ellis, “Every year around the world, restaurants go from being in the selection without a distinction to earning a star.” In fact, that’s the case for one Toronto destination this year.

2023 in review

The largest Michelin category by far - 46 establishments this year - is also one that saw the most movement since last year when Michelin inspectors found 44 Toronto establishments worthy of being Recommended.

2023 selections include all recipients from the previous year with the exception of four restaurants that shuttered since the release of the inaugural guide, seven additions, and one fine dining destination that moved up the ranks.(See: Restaurant 20 Victoria now in Starred.)

In early August, the fine dining compendium disclosed 12 new additions to this year’s roster, 49 days ahead of the official announcement. Of those, one received a star, four received Bib Gourmand distinction (also announced ahead of schedule), and seven were Recommended selections. Details below:

Aanch
Indian
259 Wellington St. W.
416-599-0513

Actinolite
Canadian
971 Ossington Ave.
416-962-8943

Adrak Yorkville
Indian
138 Avenue Rd
416-413-0777

*NEW*
Alder
Mediterranean
51 Camden St.
416-637-3737

Aloette
Canadian
163 Spadina Ave. 1st Floor
416-260-3444 

Amal
Lebanese
131 Bloor St. W.
416-551-9929

Antler Kitchen & Bar
Canadian
1454 Dundas St. W.
647-345-8300 

Ardo
Italian
243 King St. E.
647-347-8930

Bar Chica
Spanish
75 Portland St.
416-479-9779

Bar Isabel
Spanish
797 College St.
416-532-2222

Bar Vendetta
Italian
928 Dundas St. W.
416-551-8854

Buca Osteria & Enoteca
Italian
604 King St. W.
416-865-1600

Cà Phê Rang
Vietnamese
147 Spadina Ave., Unit 109
416-546-8995

Canoe
Canadian
TD Bank Tower 66 Wellington St. W., 54th Floor
416-364-0054

Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen
Jamaican
104 Portland St.
416-792-8105

Dil Se Indian Restaurant & Bar
Indian
335 Roncesvalles Ave.
416-532-4141 | 416-534-6344

Dreyfus
French
96 Harbord St.
416-323-1385

*NEW*
FK
Contemporary
770 St Clair Ave. W.
416-551-9731

George
Canadian
111C Queen St. E.
416-863-6006

Gia
Italian
1214 Dundas St. W.
416-535-8888

Giulietta
Italian
972 College St.
416-964-0606

Henry's Restaurant & Wine Bar
Contemporary
920-922 Queen St. W.
416-386-5352

Jacobs & Co. Steakhouse
Steakhouse
12 Brant St.
416-366-0200

*NEW*
Kiin
Thai
326 Adelaide St. W.
647-490-5040

Koh Lipe Thai Kitchen
Thai
35 Baldwin St.
416-599-9988

La Banane
French
227 Ossington Ave.
416-551-6263

Lapinou
French
642 King St. W.
416-479-4414

Madrina Bar y Tapas
Spanish
2 Trinity St.
416-548-8055

Maha’s
Egyptian
226 Greenwood Ave.
416-462-2703

*NEW*
Mimi Chinese
Chinese
265 Davenport Rd.
416-505-0799

Mother’s Dumplings
Chinese
421 Spadina Ave.
416-217-2008

Musoshin Ramen
Japanese
9 Boustead Ave.
416-537-3588

Pai Northern Thai Kitchen
Thai
18 Duncan St.
416-901-4724

*NEW*
Parquet
French
97 Harbord St.
416-922-2345

Pho Tien Thanh
Vietnamese
57 Ossington Ave.
416-588-6997

Pompette
French
597 College St.
416-516-1111

Prime Seafood Palace
Contemporary
944 Queen St. W.
416-551-8038

Ration | Beverley
Contemporary
335 Queen St. W.
647-366-9206

Sara
Contemporary
98 Portland St.
416-985-5721

Scaramouche
French
One Benvenuto Pl.
416-961-8011

Ten
Contemporary
1132 College St.
416-538-3810

Union
Canadian
72 Ossington Ave.
416-850-0093

*NEW*
Vela
90 Portland St.
N/A

Viaggio
Italian
1727 Dundas St. W.
416-519-8165

*NEW*
The Wood Owl
1380 Danforth Ave.
N/A

156 Cumberland
Korean
156 Cumberland St.
416-901-3886

Photos courtesy of establishments unless otherwise noted.

For the rest of the 2023 Toronto Michelin selections, see Starred and Bib Gourmand. For 2022 Toronto Michelin selections, see Starred, Bib Gourmand, Recommended, and Hotels.

Life moves fast. Catch up on new arrivals in the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

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2023 Michelin Guide Toronto: Bib Gourmand Restaurants

Sunnys Chinese Restaurant. Photo by Gabriel Li.

🕘 2 min read

Michelin Guide inspectors found 21 Toronto restaurants worthy of the Bib Gourmand designation this year, joining 17 Starred (1 two-star, 14 one-star, and for the first time 2 one green star) and 46 Recommended restaurants. According to the guide, this distinction “recognizes great food at a great value. These are restaurants where one can have two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for less than $60.”

The 2023 Bib Gourmand roster remains largely unchanged from last year’s inaugural edition: 2022’s 17 establishments retain their status, with four restaurants added this year, disclosed over a week prior to the official ceremony.

In early August, the fine dining compendium announced 12 new additions to this year’s guide, 49 days ahead of the official announcement on September 27.

The Ace
Gastropub
231A Roncevalles Ave.
416-792-7729

Alma
Asian
1194 Bloor St. W.
647-346-1881

Bar Raval
Spanish
505 College St.
N/A

*NEW*
BB’s
Filipino
5 Brock Ave.
416-668-2023

Campechano
Mexican
504 Adelaide St.
647-350-2800 

Cherry St. Bar-B-Que
Barbecue
275 Cherry St.
416-461-5111

Chica’s Chicken
American
2853 Dundas St. W.
647-343-6562 

Enoteca Sociale
Italian
1288 Dundas St. W.
416-534-1200

Fat Pasha
Middle Eastern
414 Dupont St.
647-646-1698

Favorites Thai
Thai
141 Ossington Ave.
647-867-3283

Fonda Balam
Mexican
802 Dundas St. W.
416-815-8484 

Grey Gardens
Contemporary
199 Augusta Ave.
647-351-1552

Indian Street Food Co.
Indian
1701 Bayview Ave.
416-322-3270

La Bartola
Mexican | Vegetarian
588 College St.
416-792-1550

Puerto Bravo
Mexican
1425 Gerrard St. E.
416-551-3700

R&D
Fusion | Chinese
241 Spadina Ave.
416-586-1241

SumiLicious Smoked Meat & Deli
Deli
5631 Steeles Ave. E. Unit 5
Scarborough
647-347-8899

Photo by Gabriel Li.

*NEW*
Sunnys Chinese
Chinese
60 Kensington Ave., Units 6-14
(437) 833-5798

*NEW*
Tiflisi
Georgian
1970 Queen St. E.
(416) 686-7389

Photo by Stephanie Dickison | Toronto Restaurants.

*NEW*
White Lily Diner
Diner
678 Queen St. E.
416-901-7800

Wynona
Italian | Mediterranean
819 Gerrard St. E.
416-778-5171

Photos courtesy of establishments unless otherwise noted.

For the rest of the 2023 Toronto Michelin selections, see Starred and Recommended. For 2022 Toronto Michelin selections, see Starred, Bib Gourmand, Recommended, and Hotels.

Life moves fast. Catch up on new arrivals in the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

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2023 Michelin Guide Toronto: Starred Restaurants

Restaurant 20 Victoria. Photo by Virginie Gosselin.

🕘 5 min read

The results for the second Toronto edition of the Michelin Guide are in: One restaurant was awarded two stars, and 14 restaurants received one star, as disclosed in an exclusive ceremony tonight.

The roster remains largely unchanged from last year: All 2022’s 13 recipients retain their stars, with two establishments added this year, each earning a single star.

Wondering what that entails? The Michelin star rating system is as follows:

Michelin Guide Star Rating System. Image courtesy of Michelin Guide.

The Michelin Guide selection follows “Michelin's historical methodology, based on five universal criteria, to ensure each destination's selection equity:”

1. Quality products
2. The harmony of flavours
3. The mastery of cooking techniques
4. The personality of the chef in the cuisine
5. Consistency between each visit (“Each restaurant is inspected several times a year.”)

2023 MICHELIN GUIDE TORONTO STARRED RESTAURANTS

2 STARS 

Sushi Masaki Saito
Japanese | Sushi
88 Avenue Rd.
416-924-0888

1 STAR

Aburi Hana
Japanese | Kaiseki
102 Yorkville Ave., Unit 4 (Lower Level)
647-343-8887  

Alo 
Contemporary
163 Spadina Ave., 3rd Floor
416-260-2222

Alobar Yorkville 
French
162 Cumberland St., Unit 57A
416-961-222

Don Alfonso 1890 Toronto
Italian
Westin Harbour Castle 1 Harbour Sq., 38th Floor
416-214-5888

Edulis
Contemporary
169 Niagara St.
416-703-4222  

Enigma Yorkville
Contemporary
23 St Thomas St.
416-961-1111 

Frilu
Contemporary
7713 Yonge St.
289-597-8867 

Kaiseki Yu-zen Hashimoto
Japanese | Kaiseki
6 Garamond Crt.
416-444-7100

Photo by Yoshi

*NEW*
Kappo Sato
Japanese
575 Mount Pleasant Rd.
T416-488-6868

Osteria Giulia
Italian
134 Avenue Rd.
416-964-8686

Quetzal
Mexican
419 College St.
647-347-3663 

Photo by Virginie Gosselin

*NEW*
Restaurant 20 Victoria
Contemporary
20 Victoria St.
416) 804-6066 

Shoushin
Japanese | Sushi
3328 Yonge St.
416-488-9400

Yukashi
Japanese | Kaiseki
643A Mount Pleasant Rd.
416-489-6993 

GREEN STARS

Frilu above, and White Lily Diner, which earned a Bib Gourmand designation this year, were awarded the city’s first Michelin Green Stars - one star each - in recognition for “their leadership in sustainable gastronomy.”

BIB GOURMAND & RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS

Twenty-one establishments received Bib Gourmand designation (offering “good quality food for good value”) and 46 were Recommended.

In early August, the fine dining compendium disclosed 12 new additions to this year’s roster, 49 days ahead of the official announcement. The selected Toronto restaurants - 82 in all - join last year’s local hotel picks, featuring “the most unique and exciting places to stay in Toronto and throughout the world.”

MICHELIN GUIDE SPECIAL AWARDS

In addition to Star and Bib Gourmand distinctions, the Guide announced four “Special” awards:

• Michelin Outstanding Service Award presented to the Front-of-house team of Restaurant 20 Victoria
• Michelin Young Chef Award to Chef David Schwartz and team of Sunnys Chinese
• Sommelier Award to Marco Thompson of Osteria Giulia
• Exceptional Cocktails Award to the Bar team of Quetzal.

Photos courtesy of establishments unless otherwise noted.

For the rest of the 2023 Toronto Michelin selections, see Bib Gourmand and Recommended. For 2022 Toronto Michelin selections, see Starred, Bib Gourmand, Recommended, and Hotels.

Life moves fast. Catch up on new arrivals in the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook.  Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal 

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News August 24-30, 2023

The OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 6 min read

This week’s edition - aka travelogue - takes you on a journey across the GTA via Scarborough, Markham, Mississauga, North York, east side, west end, and downtown, and reveals not only numerous debuts and expansions, but comebacks under new ownership - aka keeping the legacies alive.

Psst. Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN

Premium shisha lounge Al-Omda’s extensive menu ranges from manakish and shawarma plates to shakes and dessert. Dig in at their third Mississauga outpost (714 Lakeshore Rd. E.).

Are Japanese cream buns the answer? Probably. Get yours at the new Hattendo in Yorkdale Mall (3401 Dufferin St., Food Court), their seventh destination in the GTA.

The first Canadian Hanbigo has landed in Chinatown (397 Spadina Ave.) with fascinating fare: Bingsu topped with a snowman, The Beargato - affogato featuring ice cream in the shape of a sleeping bear, Bibim Bap Bingo, and Crispy Hash Brown Mozzarella Toast, for starters. p.s. It’s also the latest addition to TR’s Ultimate Guide to Ice Cream + Frozen Treats in Toronto/GTA.

Meet Hunter’s Hut (2574 Birchmount Rd.) - longstanding Scarborough eatery Hunter’s Family Restaurant under new ownership with a refreshed menu.

Hey Leaside, Peking duck, stir-fried fresh lobster, and dim sum have arrived courtesy of Jing Chinese Restaurant (1634 Bayview Ave.).

ISO post-work drinks downtown? In Good Spirits cocktail bar, founded by industry pro Oliver Stern (Toronto Temperance Society, Bar Begonia, Liberty Entertainment Group), boasts classic libations (Old Fashioned, Negroni) and virtual soujourns to faraway places (Mai Tai, Sangria Highball) alongside a focused menu of casual elevated eats by chef David Salt. Find it at CIBC Square’s new food hall TABLE Fare + Social (81 Bay St., 4th Fl.).

Chef specialties at Scarborough’s La Pho Vietnamese Restaurant (390 Silver Star Blvd., Unit 112) include an array of noodle soups (Spare Rib, Curry Beef Brisket, Tomato Stew Beef), Vietnamese Hot Pot, and Bangkok Pad Thai and Beef Fried Rice.

Grab-and-go makizushi (aka sushi rolls) is the focus of Maki Mart (3623 Highway 7, Suite 103) in Markham. Never-ending options include Baby Octopus, California, Fatty Toro, Hamachi, Mentaiko Scallop, Sea Eel, Salmon (Ikura, Jumbo, Spicy, Teriyaki), and Tuna Corn.

Misoya Ramen brings its signature miso-based ramen and other fare to TABLE Fare + Social (CIBC Square 81 Bay St., 4th Fl.).

After signing off for good at the end of last year, Old York Bar & Grill is back - this time as The Old York Tavern (167 Niagara St.) with new owners and menu items.

Specs n’ sips. Shopping for eyewear? Sip a Blueberry Smoothie or Vietnamese Frappuccino while you browse the collection at Opteaq Eyecare Cafe (256 Queen St. W.).

One of the biggest news stories of last year was The Real McCoy Burgers & Pizza moving on from its longtime digs in Scarborough (1033 Markham Rd.) due to incoming condos. After 53 years, final day was Christmas Eve, however George and wife Sophie Mihail planned to open elsewhere in city, then possibly in its original location after all. The home of the famous Mojo burger, pizza and other iconic fare since 1969 has returned with George, Sophie, and new investors, just a five minute drive from the OG spot. Grand opening for the The Real McCoy’s new destination at Lawrence and Bellamy (3300 Lawrence Ave. E.) took place Tuesday at noon.

Signature Fine Dining (214 King St. W.) debuts this week in the Entertainment District across from Roy Thompson Hall. What to expect? Halal Italian fare ranging from pizza ($20-$30) and pasta ($30-$35) to premium starters - Baked French Onion Soup ($25), Mushroom Neptune ($30) stuffed with crab meat and cream cheese - and entrees such as Signature Steaks ($50-$65).

The latest addition to the Junction, Thiên Tâm (2907 Dundas St. W.), offers Asian fusion vegetarian and vegan fare, with dishes spanning from Thai curries to Vietnamese crepes to ramen. Grand opening is Saturday.

Virtu Cafe (391 Bloor St. E., Street Level), Canopy by Hilton Toronto’s contemporary cafe, is in soft opening this week with grab-and-go selections for tourists and residents alike.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook.  Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal  

OPEN/CLOSED: Toronto Restaurant News August 17-23, 2023

The iconic OPEN/CLOSED is THE most comprehensive resource of restaurant openings – virtual, brick-and-mortar, pop-ups, allll the things - and food/drink news in the city. No one does it bigger or better. Watch for the drop every Thursday. #iykyk

🕘 9 min read

Not that long ago, opening a restaurant in the middle of August was a bonkers proposition. These days, it’s standard practice. Comin’ in hot, this week’s nearly 20 arrivals accompanied by notable closures.

Insider tip: Want to be the first to know? Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news and updates. 

OPEN

Carrying on the tradition. In the wake of De La Mer’s sudden closure, former employees Andrijana and James are continuing the journey. Check out their new venture Anchor Fresh Seafood, focusing on sustainable, locally sourced seafood, opening Saturday in the former DLM Roncesvalles location (291 Roncesvalles Ave.).

Bomba Toronto brings Muskoka vibes to the St. Lawrence Market’s South Market (92 Front St. E., Lower Level) with gourmet gelato and other Italian sweet treats by Huntsville’s Affogato Cafe + Gelato.

Fast casual Lebanese chain Boustan arrived in Ontario in last year and has been in expansion mode ever since. After a recent launch in Oakville, Mississauga got in on the fun (4040 Creditview Rd., Unit 5).

Chaiyo by PAI opened Tuesday in CIBC Square’s new food hall, TABLE Fare + Social (81 Bay St., 4th Floor). The latest Thai eatery by husband-wife duo Chef Nuit Regular and Jeff Regular of Pai, Sukhothai, and 2023 Michelin addition Kiin, focuses on Thai street market staples Khao Mun Gai (Thai-style Hainanese Chicken Rice) and Khao Kha Moo (Braised Pork Hock on Rice), alongside a selection of rotating features, curries, and Pad Thai.

Chicha San Chen isn’t wasting any time now that it’s touched down in the Great White North: Following the debut of the Canadian flagship earlier this year in Burnaby, British Columbia, the Taiwanese tea brand set up shop downtown (60 Huron St.). Next stop: CF Markville.

Chilliy Pepper Tacos (176 Dupont St.) does more than its eponymous dish, including burritos, tortas, bowls and quesadillas with your choice of meat (chicken, pork, beef, lamb), fish, veg (nopal, mushroom), or beans and cheese. Drinks by way of cocktails, cervezas and non-alcoholic sippers (Tamarindo, Horchata, Mexican Coke) and cake slices (Tres Leches, Napolitano, Chocolate) round out the meal. Did you know? CPT moved into the former stomping grounds of chef Anthony Rose - aka a portion of his empire on Dupont: Rose and Sons, Big Crow BBQ and The Grand Elvis. Luckily Fet Zun, Bib Gourmand listed Fat Pasha and Schmaltz Appetizing, remain within walking distance.

Head to The Citrus Espresso Bar at College and Dufferin (1104 College St.) for coffee, pastries and breakfast sandos.

Richmond Hill’s newest resto, The Finger Food Factory (636 Edward Ave., Unit 9), claims to have the city’s first Dizi Boxes. Designed to make crafting the hearty Persian meat stew at home a breeze, contents include: bowl, metal spoon, masher (for meat), tablecloth (recyclable), Persian torshi, onions, salt, pepper, sangak bread, and dumba (optional). Grand opening festivities kick off this weekend.

Friday Burger Company, a new burger n’ chicken joint by chef Joe Friday, has joined the lineup at TABLE Fare + Social at CIBC Square (81 Bay St., 4th Fl.). Stay tuned: An east end location is set to follow next month.

The city’s lastest hidden destination: Hector’s Taverna tucked inside Kensington Market’s Supermarket (268 Augusta Ave.). On the menu: An array of grab-and-go Greek fare - dips, salads, pita wraps, rice bowls, platters, and baklava.

I reported Hugh’s Room Live's plans to move to the east end back in March ‘22. (TR Newsletter subscribers got the scoop.) Update: Doors have softly opened in a heritage church in East Chinatown (296 Broadview Ave.), designed by renowned Toronto architect Edward James Lennox (Old City Hall, Casa Loma).

IKEA launches at Scarborough Town Centre (300 Borough Dr.) Wednesday. The store’s thousands of household items and furnishings will come in handy, sure, but the Swedish Deli’s signature fare - meatballs, hot dogs, cinnamon buns, ice cream - may be a contributing factor to your next visit.

Corktown is compact, but the close-knit haunts along King east of Parliament, is part of its unique charm. (See: Henrietta Lane, Old Town Bodega, Reyna on King, Roselle Desserts, Tandem Coffee, and soon The Rosebud, for starters.) Joining the crew: Ladybug Wine Bar (514 King St. E.), in what was previously Nava Social and Odin Coffee Roasters’ OG cafe.

Link Haus, industry vet David Neiman’s sausage project born out of the pandemic, has been a popular sight at local markets and fests this last while. Great news: A brick-and-mortar store debuts Tuesday at Donlands and O'Connor (423 Donlands Ave.). Fun fact: The new sausage shop and production space in the heart of East York was home to Steven's Custom Tailor for half a century.

Sushi Baked and Tahanan Filipino Cuisine come together under one roof in North York. Doors softly open on Bathurst south of Sheppard (4130 Bathurst St.) this weekend with Pinoy Waffles, Sago Gulaman, Kikiam, and trays of warm baked crabmeat and salmon ‘sushi’.

Whiskful Thinking Bakery’s storefront in Church-Wellesley Village has been in the works for some time now. (At one point during the build, the biz reached out to the public to help obtain a zoning variance from the city.) The queer-owned bakery is now open at the corner of Church and Wellesley (72 Wellesley St. E.), stocked full of bread, scones, cakes, and seasonal chocolates.

In addition to wings, ribs, wraps, burgers and fries, Wild Wing’s Scarborough digs just south of Steeles (825 Passmore  Ave.) boasts big screen HD TVs, free parking and wi-fi.

Yummy Momo (1439 Queen St W.) is serving up similar fare to its predecessor (see below) with the added bonus of signature dishes including breakfast (eggs, chole bhature/roti, saag) and Makhani, Manchurian and Afghani Malai momos.

CLOSED

Black Cat Espresso (1104 College St.) served the community for nine years before closing for greener pastures.

Om Restaurant (1439 Queen St. W.), known for its curries and momos, debuted in Parkdale’s Little Tibet in 2010. For what’s replaced it, see above.

Sushi Rin’s sole location in Richmond Hill (360 Hwy 7) has come to a close, however another remains a possibility.

Please support local businesses whenever possible.

Life moves fast. Catch up on previous editions of the OPEN/CLOSED.   

Things change quickly. Follow Toronto Restaurants on Instagram and Facebook and subscribe to the TR Newsletter for breaking news, updates, interviews + more.

Hear of a place that’s about to open or just closed? Have an upcoming food or restaurant event? Get in touch.

Need help promoting your business? Get started now.

Enjoy this? Like, follow and comment on Instagram and Facebook. Forward and share using the icons below. #supportlocal